Centre for Environmental Justice (CEJ) conducted a multi level campaign to assess sources and exposure to mercury in Sri Lanka, specifically by CFL light bulbs and mercury-based hospital equipment. Importation data on mercury was collected from Sri Lankan Customs and an additional market survey was conducted among the main mercury sellers and buyers in Colombo. Community organizers also tested water in several potentially contaminated sites and tested specific cosmetics for mercury. As part of their monitoring activities, organizers also conducted a baseline survey of hospital use of mercury-containing equipment to assess the number of breakages per year. A series of awareness activities in the community shared facts about mercury, educating school children, community members, and local officials about the mercury contained in CFL light bulbs. A main goal of this project was to start a dialogue with industry and government about adopting alternative products and equipment that are mercury free.
